Rivalry Week Chaos: Biggest NFL Upsets and Shocking Moments of 2025
Rivalry Week in the NFL is always circled on the calendar, but the 2025 edition delivered a level of chaos that few could have predicted. From stunning upsets to game-altering plays, this year’s Rivalry Week will be etched in NFL history. One jaw-dropping stat encapsulates the week’s unpredictability: underdogs won outright in 60% of divisional matchups, turning the NFL landscape on its head.
The AFC North Melee: Steelers Stun Ravens
The Pittsburgh Steelers’ season has been a rollercoaster, but their rivalry game against the Baltimore Ravens was a testament to their resilience. Despite being heavy underdogs and having lost to the Ravens just weeks prior, the Steelers marched into M&T Bank Stadium and emerged with a 24-20 victory.
Game Analysis: The Steelers’ defense, led by T.J. Watt, harassed Lamar Jackson all game, sacking him five times and forcing two crucial turnovers. On the offensive side, Najee Harris had a career day, rushing for 145 yards and two touchdowns. The Steelers’ offensive coordinator, Eddie Faulkner, implemented a run-heavy scheme that kept the Ravens’ defense on its heels.
Play Calling Breakdown: A pivotal moment came late in the fourth quarter when, on 4th and 1 from their own 45-yard line, Steelers coach Mike Tomlin opted to go for it. Harris powered through the line for a two-yard gain, sealing the victory and sending shockwaves through the AFC North.
NFC East Anarchy: Commanders Topple Eagles in a Thriller
The Washington Commanders and Philadelphia Eagles rivalry is always intense, but their 2025 clash was an instant classic. In a back-and-forth affair, the Commanders, led by rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, pulled off a stunning 35-34 victory over the Eagles.
Game Analysis: Daniels showcased his dual-threat ability, throwing for 300 yards and two touchdowns while also rushing for 75 yards and another score. The Commanders’ defense, however, struggled to contain Saquon Barkley, who ran for 150+ yards and 2 touchdowns.
Shocking Moment: The game’s defining moment came with just seconds remaining. Down by one point, Commanders coach Kliff Kingsbury opted to go for a two-point conversion instead of kicking the extra point. Daniels connected with Terry McLaurin in the end zone, sending the Commanders’ faithful into a frenzy and solidifying the upset.
AFC East Upset: Patriots Shock the Bills
The New England Patriots, written off by many after a disappointing season, reminded everyone that they still had some fight left in them. They traveled to Buffalo and defeated the Bills 21-17, throwing the AFC East into further disarray.
Game Analysis: The Patriots’ defense, a hallmark of the Bill Belichick era, stifled Josh Allen and the Bills’ high-powered offense. Rookie cornerback Christian Gonzalez had a standout performance, intercepting Allen twice and earning Defensive Player of the Week honors.
Tactical Insight: Patriots coach Jerod Mayo employed a bend-but-don’t-break defensive strategy, allowing the Bills to move the ball but tightening up in the red zone. This approach proved effective, as the Bills were held to just one touchdown in four red-zone appearances.
NFC West Showdown: Cardinals Soar Over Seahawks
In a surprising turn of events, the Arizona Cardinals, led by quarterback Kyler Murray, defeated the Seattle Seahawks 30-27 in a thrilling NFC West battle.
Game Analysis: Murray showcased his elusiveness and arm talent, throwing for 350 yards and three touchdowns. The Cardinals’ receiving corps, led by rookie wideout Marvin Harrison Jr., proved too much for the Seahawks’ secondary to handle.
Player Performance: Harrison Jr. had a breakout game, catching 10 passes for 150 yards and two touchdowns. His performance solidified his status as a rising star in the NFL and a potential Offensive Rookie of the Year candidate.
The Ripple Effect
The upsets and shocking moments of Rivalry Week 2025 had a significant impact on the NFL playoff picture. The Steelers’ win over the Ravens propelled them into playoff contention, while the Commanders’ victory over the Eagles boosted their chances of winning the NFC East. The Patriots’ upset of the Bills created a logjam in the AFC playoff race, and the Cardinals’ win over the Seahawks shook up the NFC West standings.
Rivalry Week 2025 will be remembered as a week of unexpected outcomes, stunning performances, and game-changing decisions. It was a reminder that in the NFL, anything can happen, and that’s what makes the game so captivating.